Tell Us Which Topics Interest You The Most

For the parents of a toddler, education may include counting, the alphabet and potty-training.

From kindergarten through high school, education may be defined by books, homework and tests.

For college students, education is linked with a career.

And for others, education is just a way to learn more about the world around them.

This column was dubbed ``Live and Learn`` to acknowledge that learning does not begin with kindergarten, nor does it end with a college diploma.

``Live and Learn`` also addresses the variety of topics within the subject of education.

We hope to touch on those of most interest to you, the readers.

We will explore education from preschool to high school, from public to private, homeschooling and adult ed.

We plan to spotlight the needs and accomplishments of our local schools, students, teachers and faculty.

And we`ll toss in a few helpful hints from time to time.

But we need your help.

If you know of a unique school program; award-winning volunteer or teacher; specific needs of students, teachers or schools; or tips for parents on how to deal with an education-based issue; please contact us.

-- This week may seem to be an odd time to begin a column on education -- it`s Spring Break in Palm Beach County schools.

Kids may be sleeping later in the morning. No homework to worry about.

Perhaps they`re putting in a little late night TV-viewing time.

And why not? It`s their vacation from school.

But a little structure during the week may make it easier for them to get back into the swing of things when they return to school on Monday.

A week of spring break camp may help keep them on a schedule.

If your children read, sit down with them for a story.

If they want to hear you read a book, oblige them.

This will give them a chance to practice their listening and reading skills.

As the week comes to a close, gradually steer them back into their regular school schedule. And get them to bed on time Sunday night, giving them plenty of rest before they start school again.

Questions, suggestions and tips can be directed to Rose Boccio at the Sun- Sentinel, 3333 S. Congress Ave., Delray Beach, Fla. 33445 or call the education phone line at 243-6545 and leave your name, number and a message.